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Hurricane Milton caused widespread damage in various regions of the state. For community associations that have been impacted, work begins right after the storm. It starts with an assessment of all the damage that was inflicted on the property. This often includes roof damage, including shingles or tiles that have been shorn off and are now missing. Some properties may even have experienced severe roof damage, including completely missing sections.
Storm surge and heavy rainfall may also have produced extensive flooding causing significant damage both to the association common areas as well as owners’ residences. High winds and fast-moving waters may also have left their mark on landscaping, and any uprooted trees that are blocking roadways will require immediate attention.
Associations also need to inspect and assess any damage to their building exteriors, including all windows, doors and siding that may have been impacted by the winds and flying debris. Any broken glass or structural breaches can lead to water intrusion. Community parking garages, swimming pools, tennis courts, and other amenities should also be closely inspected. This includes careful checks on all of the utility systems, e.g., electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and elevators.
Insurance will play a critical role in helping some associations to recover. Navigating the claims process can be complex, particularly for large claims following a major hurricane. Board members would be well advised to rely on the guidance of highly qualified insurance attorneys to ensure claims are filed correctly and on time.
After major storms like Milton, insurance carriers will hire adjusters to assess the damage. Based on their initial inspections those adjusters will prepare an assessment and often write a check to the association for the hiring of a restoration company to perform emergency repairs to preserve and protect the common areas.
Board members should also turn to experienced insurance attorneys prior to entering into agreements with any restoration companies or insurance claims consultants. Some companies and consultants may say they have “connections” with the insurance companies and boast they can get associations the most for their loss in exchange for a percentage of the final payout from the carriers. Board members should be careful before entering into agreements with these companies.
Rather than making any rushed decisions during a time of loss and recovery, board members should work with qualified attorneys to review any proposed contracts and professional services providers. Doing so can help them to avoid costly mistakes they may quickly come to regret.
Our firm’s South Florida community association attorneys write about important matters for associations in this blog and in our Miami Herald column, which appears every two weeks on Sundays, and we encourage association directors, members and property managers to click here and subscribe to our newsletter to receive our future articles.